MOUNT HOREB, Wisconsin – A tragic incident unfolded at Mount Horeb Middle School when a 14-year-old student was shot and killed by police after pointing a pellet rifle at officers. The Wisconsin Department of Justice revealed that the teen failed to comply with orders to drop the weapon, leading to the fatal outcome. The officers involved are currently on administrative leave as per department policy.
The unsettling situation began when a report came in about an individual approaching the school with a backpack and a possible firearm. Police swiftly located the student matching the description near the school’s entrance. The student, identified as Damian Haglund, an eighth-grader at the school, was fatally shot before gaining entry.
The middle school and several other schools within the Mount Horeb Area School District were placed on lockdown, causing anxiety among students, parents, and staff. An emergency alert was sent out, warning residents of the active shooter threat, exacerbating the fear and uncertainty in the community.
During the lockdown, parents anxiously awaited reuniting with their children, who were visibly shaken by the ordeal. The small village, located just southwest of Madison, was left in shock and disbelief over the tragic events that transpired.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the shooting, questions and concerns arise about school safety and mental health support for students. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of proactive measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Moving forward, residents and officials are urged to come together to support one another and address the underlying issues that may have contributed to this heartbreaking event. The impact of this loss will undoubtedly be felt for a long time, emphasizing the need for open dialogue and action to prevent similar incidents from occurring.